Can you believe it’s Autumn already? Where did that year go? I’m in shock.
That being said, I’m quite enjoying the change in seasons. There’s something fresh about Autumn that really gets me going. Crunchy leaves, butternut squash soup, chunky knits…just a few of my favourite things about this time of the year.
Oh, and of course Halloween. I seem to be in the minority when it comes to really liking Halloween but whether you’re a fan or a foe, there’s loads happening next month to keep you busy.
There are loads of stunning hotels around the country with midterm deals to suit all budgets and Halloween events to keep even the most hellish happy. A great excuse to go somewhere new and explore our little Emerald Isle.
Here are ten hotels and counties worth checking out…or should I say worth checking into.
Bridge House Hotel Offaly
Ready for your fun fact of the day? Last year, Co. Offaly was declared the most haunted county in Ireland. Who knew? Well, seeing as October is spooky season, I think a trip to the Bridge House Hotel in Offaly should be on the cards. Once you book in, tickets to Birr Castle’s Halloween experience are thrown in too. Pick your perfect pumpkin on the Pumpkin Trail, join the Family Quest or get a spooky makeover with some fierce face painting. There are also four other haunted castles in the vicinity (Kinnitty Castle, Clonony Castle, Charleville Castle and Leap Castle) for those brave enough to do some exploring.
Trick or Treat at the K Club Kildare
You’ve probably considered becoming a detective at some point or other…but have you ever considered becoming a bat detective? Didn’t think so. If you fancy giving it a go and tracking down some creatures of the night, Trick or Treat at the K Club are organising a bat walk and talk with Tina Aughney of Bat Conservation Ireland. You’ll learn some freaky bat facts, like what they eat and where they live, before heading out with a sonar listening device called a ‘Bat Detector’ to trail the baths through the estate. Maybe you’ll even find Batman. Probably not though. The Bat Talks are available on the October 26 and 31 as well as November 2.
Faithlegg Waterford
Baby, it’s cold outside. The weather is definitely getting nippier but bury yourself under multiple Aran jumpers and you won’t notice otherwise. Or better yet, cosy up by the fire with a hug in a mug hot chocolate and while away the night telling ghoulish tales. Faithlegg in Waterford is a great shout for its fireplace and roaring fire alone. In close proximity to the seaside villages of Dunmore and Tramore as well as Waterford city.
It’s worth checking out Wicked in the Woods, which will see award-winning company Spraoi transform Carriganore Wood on Waterford’s Greenway at WIT Arena into an imaginative seasonal wonderland. Complete with light, sound, special effects, creatures and live performances.
Ice House Hotel Mayo
The Ice House Hotel in Mayo, one for the ice queens or anyone with a cold black heart really, will send shivers down your spine (in a good way). Overlooking the misty River Moy and Belleek Woods, it’s a more luxurious way to enjoy nature without having to rough it in a badly pitched tent.
Unlike the Forbidden Forest in Harry Potter, Belleek Woods is not out of bounds. Join the Scary Woods walk for a peek if you’re too scared to face it alone. The local Halloween Festival in Ballina is sure to provide loads of entertainment too.
Radisson Blu Hotel Athlone Westmeath
The Radisson Blu promises hot chocolate and cookies on check-in and to be honest, I’m here for it.
It’s a prime location for a trip out to Glendeer Pet Farm – I went on many a school tour there and yet the thrill of the petting farm never wore off. They’re throwing a Spooktastic Halloween event with witches, a pumpkin passage, spell casting and toasted marshmallows. Lit. There’s also an eerie maze which I will be avoiding at all costs as my sense of direction is non-existent.
The Heritage Hotel Laois
Laois may be most famous for playing host to EP each September, but its pull extends far past just that. The Heritage Hotel’s Ghostly Gathering package includes a scary movie screening each evening in the purpose-built cinema, poison popcorn (eat at your own risk), creepy kids cocktails and even a family pass to the ‘Halloween Happenings’ event at Lullymore Heritage Park.
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Haunted holograms, terror train trips with zombie attacks, terror treasure hunts, a devilish den of play in the funky forest… just some of the many strange and exciting things you’ll get to experience. Good luck surviving the zombie apocalypse lads.
Inchydoney Island Lodge & Spa Cork
I know summer is over and I need to move on but I’m just not ready to leave the beach behind yet. The Inchydoney Island Lodge in West Cork overlooks two seemingly never-ending stretches of blue flag beach.
They also have a thalassotherapy seawater spa and let’s face it…seaweed is all the more luxurious when you’re wrapped in it at a spa. Loads of outdoor activities for all your #fitfam needs. We’re talking frisbees, swing ball, kites, croquet, skipping ropes – the works.
The Reverse Apartments at Muckross Park Hotel & Spa Kerry
Feel you deserve a 5-star getaway? Well, the Kingdom is calling. Muckross Park Hotel is right bang smack in the middle of the gorgeous Killarney National Park. I honestly think there are few places as beautiful as Kerry in the autumn, with mountains and lakes and crisp coloured leaves at every corner. Do I qualify for the kid’s cookery class though is what I want to know? If not then you’ll find me on the nightly Ghost Bus tour.
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Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa Sligo
Sligo has emerged as the newest foodie hotspot of the west coast and with all the sweet treats that go along with Halloween, a trip to Yeats County is highly recommended. The Radisson Blu’s Spooktacular Sligo Escape will let you explore the Wild Atlantic Way by day and settle in for a scary movie by night.
Though I have yet to work up the courage to give it a go, surfing at Strandhill has always tickled my fancy too. Watch Jaws before you head out to get yourself good and terrified.
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Castleknock Hotel Dublin
This one gives you the best of both city and country living. Located right on Dublin’s doorstep, but just far enough away to give you the illusion of escaping the hustle and bustle. Stay with the Castleknock Hotel and get a complimentary family pass to Dublin Zoo or Tayto Park, both very fun days out whether you’re young or old.
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Spectacular views from the hotel overlooking the golf course this morning ☀️
The Bram Stoker festival happening in the city is also a deadly event (in every sense of the word).
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